The goal of this interventional clinical trial is to investigate the effects of breathing exercises added to balance training on cognitive function in individuals aged 65 years and older.
The main questions it aims to answer are:
Do breathing exercises affect cognition? Do different breathing exercises affect cognition in different ways?
Researchers will administer two different breathing protocols and evaluate cognition before and after each protocol.
Participants will take part in an 8-week program consisting of sessions that include 30 minutes of balance-based exercises and 15 minutes of breathing exercises. Sessions will be held twice weekly under the supervision of a physical therapist.
Adults aged 65 years and older
Able to walk independently
Suitable for light to moderate physical activity
Willing and able to attend 2 sessions per week for 8 weeks
Underwent surgery within the last 6 months
Currently participating in another structured rehabilitation program
Neurological disorders that significantly restrict mobility (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke)
Parallel
Balance Training Program
Other interventionA structured balance-based exercise program (30 minutes per session) designed to reduce fall risk and improve functional performance.
Inspiratory Muscle Training
Other interventionTraining performed using a threshold device to strengthen inspiratory muscles for 15 minutes with intensity set individually and progressively adjusted.
Breathing Exercise Program
Other interventionBreathing exercises aimed at improving lung function and respiratory health, including diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing. Exercises will be performed for 15 minutes
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is used to assess global cognitive function. The total score ranges from 0 to 30, with higher scores indicating better cognitive performance.
Spirometry Parameters (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC Ratio)
Spirometry will be used to assess pulmonary function, including forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Higher values indicate better pulmonary function.
Maximal Inspiratory and Expiratory Pressures (MIP/MEP)
Respiratory muscle strength will be assessed using maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) measurements. Higher values indicate greater respiratory muscle strength.
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